Concerns Over Empty Shops, Parking, and Cost of Living Plague Isle of Man Constituency

Empty shops, insufficient parking, and the rising cost of living are significant concerns for voters in the Arbory, Castletown, and Malew constituency on the Isle of Man. The issues are particularly acute in Castletown, the island's ancient capital, where a noticeable decline in retail presence is impacting the local economy.

Patsy Lockerby, owner of a tearoom on Malew Street, highlighted the severe drop in footfall that has led to numerous shop closures. "I'm the only shop open in Malew Street, so that sort of speaks volumes, doesn't it?" she stated. Lockerby believes that a lack of government action to support independent businesses in the short term has exacerbated the problem, leading people to bypass Castletown altogether. She specifically cited past instances of parking closures in Market Square by commissioners as a factor that diminished customer access and contributed to businesses suffering.

Parking and Accessibility Challenges

Barry James, another local business owner, echoed concerns about parking, describing it as one of the biggest issues affecting footfall. He noted that the town's aging population and visitors face accessibility challenges. James emphasized the need for a more strategic, long-term plan for town accessibility, suggesting that piecemeal changes are insufficient. "Rather than small, whimsical changes, you'd think there would be an overall plan for a town and that has to start to with accessibility," he said.

Local resident Maggie Richards observed that visitors arriving by coach often express surprise at the limited number of shops. She recalled Castletown being a more vibrant shopping destination in the past and believes high rents may also be contributing to the decline, calling for government intervention to help attract new businesses.

Economic Pressures and Cost of Living

The rising cost of living is a pervasive concern for residents. Scott Findlay, who runs a window cleaning business, noted that while expenses have increased, wages have not kept pace with inflation, making life more difficult, especially for families. Pensioner Maureen Sloan pointed out that a significant portion of her fixed income is now consumed by essential expenses like utilities and rent, leaving little for discretionary spending. Sloan also expressed disappointment with the limited availability of local Manx produce in large supermarkets.

Lisa Corkill described the cost of living as "absolutely shocking" and criticized the government's approach to taxing benefits, particularly for pensioners and working families receiving child benefit. She voiced a sentiment of futility regarding voting, believing "absolutely nothing will change."

Education and Voter Sentiment

Despite widespread concerns, some residents see potential for their vote to make a difference. First-time voter Julie Essex, having previously lived in an area with a strong party majority, feels her vote will be more impactful on the Isle of Man. She and fellow volunteer Loraine Sansbury identified the need for a replacement secondary school for the area as a key issue for parents, citing the aging Castle Rushen High School as being outdated.

Several residents expressed a desire for more government support to revitalize the town center and address the economic challenges faced by businesses and individuals alike. The sentiment reflects a community grappling with economic downturn and seeking effective solutions from its elected officials.